Possible Transmission of HIV Infection Due to Human Bite
Author Information
Author(s): Alaka K Deshpande, Shivaji K Jadhav, Atmaram H Bandivdekar
Primary Institution: Grant Medical College and Sir J J Group of Govt Hospitals, Mumbai, India
Hypothesis
Can HIV be transmitted through human bites?
Conclusion
HIV infection can be transmitted through saliva from a human bite, even when the saliva is not contaminated with blood.
Supporting Evidence
- HIV can replicate in oral tissues, potentially serving as a reservoir.
- Previous reports suggest that HIV transmission via human bites is biologically possible.
- The case presented shows a high viral load in both individuals involved.
Takeaway
If someone with HIV bites you, there’s a chance you could get HIV too, even if their saliva doesn’t have blood in it.
Methodology
The case involved clinical examination, viral load testing, and PCR sequencing to confirm HIV transmission.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report, which may not represent broader trends.
Participant Demographics
One participant was a 44-year-old man with diabetes and hypertension; the other was his HIV-positive foster son.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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